Wimbledon is set to make a historic change by eliminating line judges for the first time in its 147-year history. Starting in 2025, live electronic line calling (ELC) will take the place of human officials during matches. This shift marks a significant departure from the traditional presence of line judges, who have been a staple at the tournament since its inception.
The new technology will be implemented across all courts during the main draw at the
All England Club, as well as in the qualifying tournament held off-site in Roehampton. ELC technology was successfully trialed during this year's championships, paving the way for its full adoption in the upcoming tournaments.
This move aligns Wimbledon with other major
Grand Slam events, such as the
Australian Open and the US Open, where similar electronic line calling systems are already in use. The decision reflects a growing trend in tennis to embrace technology for enhanced accuracy and efficiency in officiating.
Q: What significant change is Wimbledon implementing starting in 2025?
A: Wimbledon will abolish line judges and replace them with live electronic line calling (ELC) for the first time in its 147-year history.
Q: Why is this change being made?
A: The change is part of a move towards modernizing the tournament, as ELC technology has already been successfully used at other Grand Slam events like the Australian and US Opens.
Q: When will the electronic line calling technology be introduced at Wimbledon?
A: The ELC technology will be used on all courts during the main draw and the qualifying tournament starting in 2025.
Q: How was the ELC technology received during its testing?
A: The technology was successfully tested during the 2024 Wimbledon championships, indicating its readiness for future use.
Q: How long have line judges been a part of Wimbledon?
A: Line judges have been a feature of Wimbledon for 147 years.